Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday underscored that Pakistan would continue to play its constructive role in support of the efforts to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan.
The minister’s remarks came during a telephonic conversation with United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) Antonio Guterres during which the two leaders exchanged views on the evolving situation in Afghanistan.
A day earlier, Pakistan accepted a request to host the US citizens and other foreigners leaving Afghanistan in a bid to aid the withdrawal of people from the neighbouring country by August 31.
According to reports, up to 3,000 people will be brought to Karachi.
Today, the foreign minister also appreciated the contribution of the UN in addressing the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan.
Secretary-General Guterres expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s role in facilitating the work of humanitarian missions of UN entities in Afghanistan and sought Pakistan’s continued support in the matter.
FM Qureshi also assured the secretary-general of all possible support to the UN in the fulfilment of its mandate.
The foreign minister also received a call from the Secretary for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs and First Secretary of State of the United Kingdom Dominic Raab. The two leaders exchanged views on the latest developments in the neighbouring country.
The FM underscored that safety, security, stability and protection of the rights of all Afghans were critically important.
“It is essential for the world community to stay engaged with Afghanistan to stabilise the situation and help the Afghan people economically and to continue providing humanitarian assistance,” the FM said.
The UK foreign secretary shared UK’s perspective on the developments in Afghanistan and conveyed gratitude for Pakistan’s support and facilitation in the evacuation efforts.
‘World mustn’t repeat the mistake it made after Soviet withdrawal’
Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar said the world must not repeat the mistake it made after the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan in 1989.
“This is the time for the global community to engage and not isolate Afghanistan,” the minister said in a tweet.
“A fraction of the money spent on the war in Afghanistan, spent honestly on development can enhance global security.”
